Triathlete’s 2026 Guide to the Best Ironman and Iron-Distance Races in the Americas

Ironman Canada-Ottawa

Aug. 2, 2026 

Ottawa, Canada 

Ironman Canada is one of the oldest races on the Ironman circuit. After debuting in Penticton, British Columbia, in 1986 (originally Ultra Triathlon in 1983) and then moving to Whistler, and then back to Penticton, today’s version of Ironman Canada takes place in Ottawa.

The inaugural Ironman Canada-Ottawa took place in 2025 and sold out over a year in advance. This new course leaves behind the unspoiled wilderness for a more metropolitan experience in Canada’s capital.

The race begins with a one-loop swim in the Ottawa River. Then, athletes embark on a 2.75-loop course that’s completely closed to traffic (almost unheard of in full Ironman events). The roads are smooth and rolling, contributing to 2,454 feet of elevation gain, with views of the river and Embassy Row. The flat run course winds through the capital to a finish line in front of Parliament Row.

It’s a summer Ironman but with considerably milder temperatures than most of the U.S. Think a temperature range of 58-83 degrees F, with a water temperature of 70 degrees.

Ironman Lake Placid

July 19, 2026 

Lake Placid, New York

Another one of Ironman’s oldest locations, Ironman Lake Placid, aka IMLP, almost always sells out the fastest of any race on the circuit.

Lake Placid has been consistently ranked among the most recommended Ironman races in North America, plus its bike and run courses are consistently voted some of the best. But the incredible two-loop swim in Mirror Lake is one of legend. Not only is the water temperature consistently in the high 60s to low 70s, making it the perfect temperature for wetsuit use, there’s also an underwater cable that sits a few feet below the surface to help keep you going in the right direction – without having to sight.

The two-loop bike course is as beautiful as it is challenging with epic climbs and fast descents, contributing to a whopping 7,432 feet of elevation gain. There are breathtaking views of the Adirondacks as you pass by Whiteface Mountain and the Olympic Center. The Keene descent is a highlight, where you drop 1,500 feet over the course of 4-5 miles.

The two-loop run is hilly as well with approximately 1,258 feet of gain as it tours the city center, heads out to Mill Hill, and back to the Olympic Oval at Mirror Lake.

Ironman California

Oct. 18, 2026 

Sacramento, California

Ironman California is a newer race on the Ironman calendar, making its debut in 2022 (after a bomb cyclone canceled the inaugural race in 2021). But it’s already proving to be a favorite among athletes for the mild temperatures and fast course.

The swim is a highlight with a course that starts in the American River near Township 9 Park and follows a point-to-point downriver course in the Sacramento River, finishing at the Tower Bridge. The two-loop bike course is flat and fast, touring the scenic wine country of the Sacramento River Delta with only 710 feet of gain.

The run course is flat as well, taking athletes on the River Walk Trail, crossing under Tower Bridge, onto the American River Bike Trail, and toward the Capitol Mall in downtown Sacramento. With 426 feet of gain, this is one of the flatter marathon courses on the Ironman circuit.

Michigan Titanium

Aug. 16, 2026 

Grand Rapids, Michigan

If you’re looking for something with local flair, Michigan Titanium is it. This non-branded iron-distance race in Grand Rapids provides the 140.6 experience without the big-name price tag.

In addition to what they call the “ultra” where you can become a “Titan,” they also have a half distance, Olympic, and sprint, as well as an aquabike, swim, duathlon, and relay for all distances.

The iron-distance has enjoyed a great reputation over the years, but as many athletes are shifting to short-course events, this will likely be the final year for the Michigan Titanium ultra. Apparently, they’re pulling out all the stops for the “Titan Finale,” so register for this final opportunity to compete at Michigan’s only iron-distance triathlon.

The course is a gem with a 1.2-mile loop swim in Versluis Lake (two laps for the ultra). The bike course is two loops as well, and the run course is four loops with an out-and-back design. The best part is you get to cross the finish line with family members or friends, something that’s not allowed at most iron-distance events.

Peasantman

Aug. 16, 2026 

Penn Yan, New York

If an Ironman is a bit too pricey for you, consider becoming a Peasantman. The cheeky name is on purpose, as First Knight Events aims to provide a more affordable race experience, with a registration price range of $422–$539.

The race’s “steel” distance is a bit different as well due to a slightly longer bike course, resulting in a total distance of 144.6 miles. Another unique aspect of this race is they offer a full-distance aquabike, duathlon, and relay, which is almost unheard of these days. There’s also a “half steel” distance (72.3 miles), intermediate steel (36.55 miles), and sprint (17.6 miles).

The venue is the beautiful Finger Lakes region of Penn Yan, New York. The swim is two laps of a 1.2-mile course in Keuka Lake. The bike course is scenic on rolling hills for four laps along the river and rural countryside. As the race takes place near Old Order Amish and Mennonite communities, keep an eye out for horse and buggies. The run is a flat and pretty, out-and-back route along the shores of Keuka Lake. Steel distance athletes will complete four laps of this course before heading to the finish line to be knighted.

And if you’re worried about course cut-offs, this run course closes a little later than others, at 12:30 a.m. In 2026, Peasantman will serve as the USA Tri Ultra Distance Championship.

Ironman Chattanooga

Sept. 27, 2026 

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga is a beloved destination on the Ironman calendar for triathletes who love a scenic course.

The swim is point-to-point in the Tennessee River within cheering distance of spectators on the Chattanooga Riverwalk. After exiting the swim at Ross’s Landing, athletes head out on a new bike course unveiled in 2025. The three-lap design on US-27 has fresh pavement and a dedicated bike lane with views of the Cumberland Plateau. The bike course has 4,300 feet of elevation gain.

The run is rolling to hilly on two loops through downtown Chattanooga with four distinct sections: the Riverwalk, Veterans Bridge, North Shore, and Riverfront Parkway. The run course has 1,150 feet of gain. With a scenic finish line on the river by the Tennessee Aquarium, it’s a great setting for an all-night party in the Scenic City.

Ironman Florida

Nov. 7, 2026 

Panama City Beach, Florida 

Ironman Florida is the longest consecutively running Ironman in North America. Part of the appeal is the vacation destination with white sand beaches and turquoise waters in Panama City. Also, the course is flat and fast, making it a popular choice among first-time Ironman athletes and those seeking a PR. This race was highly ranked by athletes in four categories in 2024, including best race in North America and best swim.

The swim is in the Gulf of Mexico, which can be unpredictable on occasion with a strong current and waves. But the water is crystal-clear, and you can catch your breath during an Aussie exit in between laps around the Russell-Fields Pier.

The single-lap bike course is primarily flat with some rolling hills. It’s fast, but you should expect a headwind and tailwind at some point throughout the day. The course takes athletes along the intracoastal waterways into Pine Log State Forest and back to the beach to begin the marathon.

The two-lap run course is one of the most spectator-friendly on the circuit because it travels along the beachfront hotels on Front Beach Road. This means you can see family and friends four times on course. Expect loud music, spectators in crazy costumes, and Christmas lights in palm trees as you make your way to the finish line in Pier Park.

Ironman Jacksonville

May 16, 2026 

Jacksonville, Florida 

This new race was added to the Ironman calendar late last year with much fanfare. Now there are two Ironman races in Florida, but this course is much different than the one at Panama City Beach.

The swim course has a point-to-point design in the St. John’s River and is said to be timed with the incoming tide. The two-lap bike course goes through downtown with 873 feet of gain. The two-lap run course winds its way through the city with views of the river and crosses over the Main Street Bridge. It’s very flat with just 301 feet of gain.

As far as the weather is concerned, think about what Florida feels like in May at 70.3 Gulf Coast and then double it. The temperature range is 71-94 degrees F with the water temperature around 67 degrees F, so at least it’s wetsuit legal.

Ironman Texas

April 18, 2026 

The Woodlands, Texas

The first Ironman on the North American calendar is Ironman Texas. It’s a favorite among athletes for the Lone Star State energy and unique run course. Currently, less than 100 spots remain for Ironman Texas.

Athletes begin their journey at North Shore Park with a point-to-point swim in Lake Woodlands. There’s one out-and-back section before you swim through a spectator-lined canal to Town Green Park. The water temperature hovers around 74 degrees F, so it’s right on the edge for wetsuit use.

The two-lap bike course leaves The Woodlands and heads out onto the Hardy Toll Road. Most of the course is closed to traffic, and it can be very fast. But athletes should expect a headwind and tailwind at some point throughout the day. Also, there’s no shade cover, so wear sunscreen.

The flat, three-lap run course around the lake is the highlight of Ironman Texas going through a special spectator section at mile 6 known as “Hippie Hollow.” There are costumed performers, plenty of tie-dye, bongo drums, and cow bells, and a 1976 van with a photo booth. In a recent interview, one of the Hippie Hollow founders indicated the 12-year tradition might soon be coming to an end, so if you want to experience the magic of Hippie Hollow, best do it now.

Endure Virginia

Sept. 11-12, 2026 

Huddleston, Virginia

There aren’t many off-branded iron-distance events left in the U.S. As you read earlier, Michigan Titanium says 2026 will likely be the final year for their ultra, and Bear Lake Brawl discontinued their full-distance race this year. But a few independent races are popping up that follow the ultra format trend of compressed courses with small, repeatable loops.

At these races, the iron-distance is often one of the shortest available. The Endure Ultra Triathlon held its inaugural event in 2025 at Smith Mountain Lake in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The main event is the double ultra triathlon (281.2 miles in 36 hours), as well as a double ultra aquabike, double ultra duathlon, and double ultra relay. But there’s also a 140.6 on the same course consisting of a 0.58-mile swim loop, 5.68-mile bike loop, and 1-mile run loop.

Ironman Cozumel

Nov. 22, 2026 

Cozumel, Mexico 

This late-season destination race is a global favorite that draws a huge contingent from the States each year. The swim course is one of the most beautiful on the circuit, with amazing visibility and underwater sea life that accompany you on your 2.4-mile swim. The average water temperature is 78 degrees F, so it’s pretty much guaranteed not to be wetsuit legal.

The three-lap bike ride encircles the island with a flat, scenic route along the ocean. The flat, two-lap run travels along the waterfront, into downtown, and through historic neighborhoods to City Hall plaza and an all-night finish line party on the red carpet.

Ironman Brazil

May 31, 2026 

Florianopolis, Brazil 

If you thought Ironman Cozumel was popular, wait till you hear about Ironman Brazil. Over the past 20 years, Florianopolis has been home to record-setting performances. Consistently ranked among the top global races, it’s often sold out (like it is in 2026).

Part of the appeal is the stunning course that takes athletes from crystal clear waters to cycling up mountains and running along the coastline. The swim is unique in that it’s an M-shape with an Aussie exit on the beach. You begin in front of Ammo Beach Restaurant in Jurere Internacional and exit the water at T2.

The bike course is two laps, and it’s very challenging with 11,498 feet of elevation gain, and that’s not to mention the wind along the coast. There’s an intermediate cut-off time to complete the swim, T1, and bike course 10 hours and 30 minutes after the final athlete starts the swim. The four-lap, flat run course is vibrant and filled with spectators, especially at Avenida dos Buzios, where local tri clubs set up their tents. The weather is fairly mild, with temperatures of 56–72 degrees F and a water temperature around 69 degrees F.

Ironman San Juan

Nov. 1, 2026 

San Juan, Argentina 

A new addition to the Ironman calendar in 2026 is Ironman San Juan in Argentina. In fact, it’s a full triathlon weekend with the Ironman on Nov. 1 and the 5150 San Juan Triathlon (short course) on Oct. 30.

San Juan sits at the foothills of the Andes Mountains, so expect incredible views and warm weather. The swim will take place in the Punta Negra Dam with views of the San Juan River and Cerro Blanco.

The one-lap bike course takes a tour of San Juan’s vineyards and valleys with more than 2,400 feet of elevation gain. The flat run winds along downtown streets, passing historic landmarks on Libertador San Martin Avenue, South Connector, and Cantoni Stadium on the way to the finish line party at Plaza del Bicentenario.

Ironman Valdivia

Nov. 29, 2026 

Valdivia, Chile 

Registration is not yet open for a brand-new Ironman in Chile. Ironman Valdivia will take place during the same weekend as 70.3 Valdivia. Located in the Chilean Lake District, Valdivia is known as “the Pearl of the South” with a mixture of Spanish and German heritage.

The swim is point-to-point in the Calle-Calle River. Wetsuits are mandatory. The two-loop bike course takes athletes on a tour of the area’s many rivers, forests, and mountains. The ride begins near the Tres Marias airfield and heads toward Cabo Blanco and the Cruces River. Keep an eye out for black-necked swans! The course skirts the Cayumapu River toward Mafil and the Pichoy Memorial Bridge. The route is said to be very well-maintained, ensuring a fast ride with 2,869 feet of gain.

The flat run begins on Isla Teja at Saval Park and travels across the many bridges in Valdivia, including the Cau-Cau, Calle-Calle, and Pedro de Valdivia. Then, athletes will complete three laps between the Costanera and Avenida Espana. Total elevation gain is 467 feet.

Race day temperatures are ideal for those who enjoy cooler climates with a range of 47–69 degrees F and a water temperature of 57 degrees F.

Patagonman

Dec. 6, 2026 

Aysen, Patagonia, Chile 

The final iron-distance triathlon on this list isn’t just a triathlon; it’s an epic adventure.

The course is breathtaking, remote, and due to its location at the southernmost part of the world, extreme weather is common. Wetsuits and safety buoys are mandatory. Water temperature as low as 50 degrees F isn’t unusual, and air temperature on the bike and run can range from 39 to 72 degrees.

The course is unique in that it’s point-to-point, or in this case, from fjord to lake. The race begins with a jump off a ferryboat into the icy waters of Aysen Fjord. After swimming 3.8K (2.4 miles) to Puerto Chacabuco, athletes warm up as best they can and hop on the bike for a 180K (112-mile) ride on the hilly roads of Carretera Austral to Cerro Castillo.

The final leg of the race is a marathon run on dirt trails along the Ibanez River, through forests, and by waterfalls to General Carrera Lake. Upon arrival at the finish line, athletes will ring the bell to celebrate their incredible accomplishment.